Mood Disorders: What They Are

Mood disorders is a general term that describes a group of mental disorders where individuals exhibit a fluctuation in mood from a baseline level. These shifts in moods tend to be quite intense and can go on for a prolonged duration despite the lack of an apparent reason. Unfortunately, this can cause a disruption in their daily lives, preventing them from functioning well.

There are four types of recognised mood disorders, which are:

Depressive Disorders – These disorders are ailments which affect the body, mood and thoughts. Major Depression, which combines all the symptoms of depression is the most dangerous because it interferes with a person’s life. Another form is Dysthymia, which involves at least two years of less severe symptoms which prevent the sufferer from feeling happy. Other types of depressive disorders include Psychotic Depression and Postpartum Depression.

Bipolar Disorder – Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder where sufferers fluctuate between mania and depression. Formerly known as manic depression, this condition can scare both the sufferer and their oved ones. However, treatments are available according to the types of the disorder, which are Bipolar 1, Bipolar II, and Cyclothymia.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – Responsible for depressive symptoms during specific times of the year, many people do take this disorder seriously due to its acronym. However, it can cause problems with melatonin secretion and affect the Circadian Rhythm, i.e. the body clock.

Substance-Induced Mood Disorders – Triggered by abusing alcohol, Benzodiazepine in Valium and Librium, or other drugs, these disorders can evolve into serious mental and physical conditions.

Symptoms and Causes You Should Know About

The symptoms of mood disorders vary depending on the type of disorder you or your loved one is suffering from. However, some of the common signs you should beware of are:

Prolonged sadness

Anxiety

Lack of energy

Feelings of guilt

Pains without a physical explanation

Chronic mood swings

Obsessive thoughts

Inability to sleep

If you are experiencing any of these, make sure to seek professional help. While the cause of mood disorders has not yet been uncovered, scientists believe that an imbalance of the brain’s chemicals may be responsible. However, what causes the imbalance is yet to be discovered. There are theories linking it to life events and genetic factors though.

Possible Treatments

There is a wide range of treatments offered to help individuals with mood disorders, including the following:

Psychodynamic therapy to uncover past issues and their relationship to current thoughts and behaviours

Here at YourMind.Clinic, Dr Ahmed possess the expertise, skill and dedication to help you or your loved one fight mood disorders and gain control over life and relationships. To make an appointment you can email here.